Sealed Cell Growth Environment

OptiCell® sealed cell environment allows the researcher to culture, observe, monitor, analyze, and transport cells easily and efficiently. One OptiCell frame has the same footprint as a 96-well plate and is 6 mm thick. Each OptiCell has two 50 cm_² optically clear growth membranes that exchange O₂ and CO₂, maintaining a stable pH and optimal oxygenation of the cells. A blunt syringe tip, pipet tip, or robotic cannula is used to fill the cell chamber through self-sealing ports. Both growth membranes are covered with media, allowing OptiCell to be transported or mailed in any orientation without disturbing or dehydrating the cells. Cells may be viewed directly in the growth chamber with inverted or upright microscopes, including high power oil immersion objectives. Growth membranes do not absorb UV light over 260 nm and are suitable for fluorescence or visible spectrum techniques. Thin growth membranes allow efficient, low cost magnetic cell separation. Each chamber is bar-coded for easy tracking, and the design simplifies automation and robotic handling. After the cells have grown, the growth membranes can be removed and sectioned for assays or stains.